Page:In Maremma, by Ouida (vol 2).djvu/279

 'Will you let me come with you to the tombs?' said Sanctis, with entreaty in his voice. 'Beside Joconda's coffin I do not think you would be at war with me like this. I could make you understand'

'I understand well enough. You want to give me up to the law, though I have done no ill. And I have said that you shall never do it.'

'Will you let me go home with you one moment?'

'No. I will never take you there again.'

'Because you are no longer alone?'

'You have threatened to betray me. That is reason enough.'

Her eyes never ceased to keep their lioness-like watch on him; her hand never relaxed its hold upon the stiletto. He was of Joconda's kindred, that was the only thought that made her pause, and give him one more chance.

'You must promise me, swear to me,' she said passionately, 'or you will make me kill you. I cannot let you go to bring the law you boast of as your helper. If first of all Zirlo had not betrayed me to you, you would never have had the power to betray me